Mar 31, 2024
Scripture Reading: 1 Peter 1:1-9
In 1 Peter 1, Peter makes reference to the resurrection of Jesus two times (1 Pet 1:3; 21). What we see in this chapter is a glorious description of the salvation Christ has purchased for us through His perfect life, His sacrificial death, and His triumphant rise from the grave.
Our inheritance in Christ is according to God's graciously choosing us (1 Pet 1:2). This everlasting life is "imperishable, undefiled, and unfading [and] kept in heaven [for us] (1 Pet 1:4). We are guarded by God's power (1 Pet 1:5). There is no gift imaginable that matches our having the righteousness of Christ credited to our account and the hope of living in the very presence of God forever.
There are many responses we have to receiving such a gift. First, we realize that we are exiles on the earth (1 Pet 1:1) and that our ultimate home is with God and not here. Second, we long to be obedient to the commands of God (1 Pet 1:2). Third, we have the experience of a deep joy in our souls, even in the middle of difficulties (1 Pet 1:6,8). Fourth, we grow in our love for God (1 Pet 1:8).
As we contemplate our grand salvation in Christ, we are filled with fervent love for Him, unflagging obedience to His dictates, inexpressible joy. Such is the effect which the magnificence of the gift of eternal life has on the human heart. And finally, it causes us to see ourselves as strangers on the earth … ever and always longing to go home.